An analysis is presented to describe the state of adaptation of the fovea as a result of sudden luminance changes. Extensive use is made of data found in the literature that relate observer response to luminance changes in order to validate the formulation as well as to quantify some parameters associated with the derivation. Downward and upward transitions are treated in a similar manner. The results are intended for application in automobile headlight visibility studies concerned with calculating the state of adaptation of drivers exposed to transient levels of opposing glare.
Huculak, P., The influence of glare on the detection of hazardous objects in automobile night driving, Mechanical Engineering Report MS-142, National Research Council of Canada (1978).
